CHRISTMAS CRITTERS
CHRISTMAS CRITTERS is quilted using hand appliqué.
Hand Applique is the historic method of layering pieces of fabric on a background fabric. Applique was initially used to extend the life of clothing and can be found in a variety of forms and styles in numerous cultures around the world. Applique developed to create pictures such as wreaths, or emblems and to ebmellish borders.
Different cultures added their own flare and designs based on their creative art and local influences. Early applique quilts became popular in the 1700’s and peaked in the United States with Baltimore Album Quilts in the 1850’s. Applique quilts from this time frame can be simple or very elaborate and feature wreaths, flowers, locations and often include symbols and patriotic themes. Initially applique as a decorative art was done by hand sewing pieces of fabric onto a background fabric. The applique blocks were embellished with ink and embroidery.
HAWAIIAN CHRISTMAS
The quilting method used in Hawaiian Christmas is Hawaiian needle turn appliqué.
With this method, the block designs in color are cut from one piece of fabric. The raw edge of applique pieces are turned under as the piece is being appliqued to the fabric base. The seam allowance is often smaller than 1/4″ and some techniques use an insert of thin batting or another piece of fabric and turn the seam allowance under the insert. This ensures the seam is not seen through the top piece.
Sometimes the shape is drawn on the top side of the applique and the needle is used to turn the seam allowance under, up to the drawn line, during the applique stitching to ensure placement and fit. Sometimes no lines are drawn, the edge of the needle is used to turn under the seam allowance by eye during the sewing. In either case, the process of cutting out the appliques in preparation to start stitching is much faster than if each piece had to be completely turned under before beginning to stitch.
In Hawaii, appliqué quilts were inspired by traditional Hawaiian bed covers, called kapa moe, and imported fabrics. They were often made using two fabrics and had a single, symmetrical design, achieved like you might cut a snowflake from paper. Many designs included curved lines and plant motifs inspired by Hawaii’s natural beauty.
To view Judy’s Christmas Quilts I NESTER post – click here
Interesting and enjoyable
Thank you!
Interesting and enjoyable
Thank you!
Merry Christmas
This work is so beautiful. There are a lot!!!!!!of tiny stitches there. Thanks, Judy, for including some information about how the work is done. You must be a very patient person with very good eyesight. Thank you for sharing these holiday delights. Jan